Replantation of forearm with abandoned fingers for emergency finger reconstruction

Abstract

Objective To explore the surgical method and clinical efficacy of emergency finger reconstruction with forearm replantation using abandoned fingers. Methods From February 2003 to February 2019, 15 patients with only 2 or 3 finger intact were treated by forearm replantation using abandoned fingers for finger reconstruction. Among them, 3 fingers were reconstructed in 2 cases and 2 fingers were reconstructed in 13 cases. Results All reconstructed fingers survived and the wounds achieved primary healing. The follow-up time was 3 to 12 months with an average of 6 months. The reconstructed finger was similar to the original finger in shape, with good function, grasping and other basic functions. The pulp sensation recovered well. The two-point discrimination was 5 to 10 mm. The patients were satisfied. According to the evaluation criteria of thumb and finger reconstruction function issued by the Hand Surgery Society of the Chinese Medical Association, the results were rated as excellent in 3 cases, good in 9 cases and fair in 3 cases. Conclusion Emergency replantation of forearm with abandoned fingers to reconstruct finger is an ideal method for emergency treatment of wrist injury, reconstruction and recovery of some hand functions. Key words: Finger injuries; Replantation; Microsurgery; Hand reconstruction